United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Emergency Medical Services Amendments - Extends the authorization for appropriations through fiscal year 1979 for emergency medical service systems under the Public Health Service Act. Revises provisions related to grants and contracts for the establishment, initial operation, expansion, and improvement of such systems and grants and contracts for research in emergency medical techniques. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to conduct and support programs designed to aid in the treatment and rehabilitation of individuals injured by burns. Directs the Secretary to conduct studies of: (1) the categories of patients which should be included in a uniform reporting system to evaluate the effectiveness of emergency medical service systems in reducing death and disability; and (2) the effectiveness of Federal assistance for communication systems of public safety agencies.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Public Health Service Act to authorize the appropriation of specified sums in fiscal years 1976 through 1979 for the purpose of continuing Federal assistance programs for health services research and statistics and Federal programs for assistance to medical libraries. Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to use and permit use of Department resources, provide technical assistance and advice, make grants, and enter into contracts for the provision of health services research and health statistics training for the purpose of aiding federally funded projects for health research experiments.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
Amends the Comprehensive Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism Prevention, Treatment, and Rehabilitation Act of 1970 to authorize the appropriation of specified amounts in fiscal years 1976 through 1979 to carry out the purposes of such Act. Authorizes the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to designate National Alcohol Research Centers for the purpose of interdisciplinary research relating to alcoholism and other alcohol problems. Directs the Secretary to make annual grants to such centers, not in excess of $1,000,000. Requires State alcohol abuse programs and the Secretary to give special consideration to alcohol abuse treatment and prevention for women and juveniles. Entitles alcohol abusers and alcoholics to be treated at outpatient facilities receiving Federal funds for treatment of alcoholism. Requires State alcohol abuse programs to include assurance that there will be some means of evaluating the effectiveness of treatment and rehabilitation programs funded under the Act. Requires that the National Advisory Council on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism approve applications for grants under such Act. Amends the Drug Abuse Office and Treatment Act of 1972 to require State drug abuse programs and the Secretary to give special consideration to drug abuse treatment and prevention for women and juveniles.
United States · United States Congress · 18 March 1976
National Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Act - Title I: Health Information and Health Promotion - National Health Information and Health Promotion Act - Amends the Public Health Service Act to add title XVII (Health Information and Health Promotion). Directs the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare to formulate national goals with respect to health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care. Directs the Secretary to undertake and support activities necessary to achieve such goals. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for fiscal years 1977 through 1979 to carry out such purposes. Directs the Secretary to monitor proposed Federal legislation and Federal programs, making recommendations on any changes necessary in the interest of public health. Directs the Secretary to conduct research programs in health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care, and to determine the best methods of disseminating information about such area. Directs the Secretary to study environmental, occupational, social, and behavioral factors which affect health. Directs the Secretary to formulate methods of evaluating the costs and effectiveness of activities funded under this title. Directs the Secretary to make a continuing survey of needs, interest, attitudes, knowledge, and behavior of the American public regarding health and health care. Directs the Secretary to conduct and support, by grant or contract, new and innovative programs in health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care. Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States and other public and nonprofit private entities for the purposes of demonstration and evaluation programs which provide information respecting the costs and quality of health care or information respecting health insurance policies and prepaid health plans. Directs the Secretary to conduct and support, by grant or contract, such activities as are necessary to make health information and health promotion information available to the consumers of medical care, providers of such care, and schools. Requires the Secretary to submit an annual report to Congress on the status of health concerns reflected by this title, each such report to include a description and evaluation of activities carried out under this title and relevant legislative recommendations. Directs the Secretary to conduct a study of health education services and preventive health services to determine the coverage of such services under public and private health insurance programs. Establishes a committee to provide for the communication and exchange of information necessary to effectively coordinate Federal programs and health activities which relate to health information and health promotion, preventive health services, and education in the appropriate use of health care. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare an Office of Health Information and Health Promotion to establish a national information clearinghouse to facilitate the exchange of information on health concerns under this title. Authorizes the establishment of a nonprofit corporation to be known as the Center for Health Promotion, such Center to be responsible for advancing health programs under this title. Directs the Center to serve as a forum for the involvement of entities involved in health care and education and to assist in accelerating the incorporation of proven methods of achieving the purposes of this title by establishing a system of technical assistance, training, and consultation. Requires the Center to report annually to Congress on its operation, activities, and financial condition. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for the expenses of the Center in fiscal years 1977 through 1979. Title II: Disease Prevention and Control - Disease Prevention and Control Amendments - Authorizes the Secretary to make grants to States and public and nonprofit private entities to assist them in meeting the costs of disease prevention and control programs. Directs the Secretary to give special consideration to programs to increse the immunization rates of any population identified as not having received the generally recognized disease immunizations. Authorizes the appropriation of specified amounts to carry out the purposes of this title in fiscal years 1976 through 1978. Requires the Secretary to submit to the President for submission to Congress an annual report on the effectiveness of all Federal, public, and private activities in preventing and controlling specified diseases. Directs the Secretary to develop a plan under which resources of the Public Health Service and other agencies under the Secretary's jurisdiction could be effectively used to control epidemics of specified diseases and other health emergencies. Permits the Secretary to extend temporary assistance to States or localities in meeting health emergencies. Extends programs to combat venereal disease through fiscal year 1978 and authorize specified sums to carry out such programs. Amends the Lead-Based Paint Poisoning Prevention Act to require federally funded follow-up programs to include measures to eliminate lead-based paint hazards from surfaces in and around residential dwelling units. Directs the Consumer Product Safety Commission to take such steps as are necessary to prohibit the application of lead-based paint to any toy or furniture article. Directs the Commission to determine whether or not a level of lead in paint greater than six one-hundredths of one percent but not in excess of five-tenths of one percent is safe, the definition of "lead-based paint" under such Act to be revised in accordance with the Commission's findings. Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for fiscal years 1976 through 1978 to carry out the purposes of such Act. Title III: Miscellaneous Amendment - Amends the Public Health Service Act to redefine "State" as, in addition to the several States, the District of Columbia, Guam, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
National Science Foundation Authorization Act - Authorizes the appropriation of $797,000,000 to the National Science Foundation for fiscal year 1977. Sets forth regulations with respect to the use of such funds. Authorizes the Foundation to continue the Alan T. Waterman Award for scientific research or advanced scientific study during fiscal year 1977.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
Authorizes appropriations under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $20,000,000 for fiscal 1978. Authorizes appropriations for fire research and safety of $5,500,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Prohibits the Administrator of the National Fire Prevention and Control Administration from conducting fire research without the specific authorization of the Secretary of Commerce. Stipulates that no commitment to obligate funds for the construction of any facility of the National Academy for Fire Prevention and Control shall be made unless the Congress approves.
United States · United States Congress · 16 March 1976
National Educational Opportunities Act - Title I: Definition and Guarantee of a Unitary School System and Equal Educational Opportunity - Provides that each State and its local educational agencies shall establish and maintain desegregated, unitary school systems which offer equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of race, color, or national origin. States that a desegregrated unitary school system shall be presumed to exist unless a State or local educational agency denies equal educational opportunities to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by specified acts which have the natural, probable, foreseeable, or actual effect of segregating students on the basis of race, color or national origin. Prohibits local educational agencies from denying equal educational opportunity to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by maintenance of practices or provision of resources in schools in which minority students are concentrated that are less favorable for educational success and advancement than in schools attended primarily by students of any other race, color, or national origin. Gives examples of such denials of equal educational opportunity. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action in Federal court for equitable relief in any case where he has reasonable cause to believe that the provisions of this Act are being violated. Title II: State Equal Educational Opportunities Plans - Requires each State to prepare and submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for his approval a plan to carry out the purpose of this Act. Requires that such plan shall provide for the establishment of State and local advisory bodies to advise State and local educational agencies on development and participation in such plans. Requires such plans to provide a viable mechanism for States and local educational systems to implement a policy of equal educational opportunities that delineates the fundamental prerequisites for a desegregated, unitary school system. Provides that such State plans shall include specific means for implementing some or all of the following components: (1) a majority transfer plan on both an intradistrict and interdistrict basis; (2) a school district reorganization plan; and (3) an approved, concentrated compensatory education program for basic instructional programs, supportive services, and vocational guidance and for programs having potential for improving the achievement performance of educationally deprived students. Authorizes to be appropriated for carrying out this title not in excess of $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $500,000,000 for each fiscal year for the next three fiscal years. Provides a formula for allotment of such funds to the States and for allocation among various programs and agencies. States that whenever the Secretary, after reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing: (1) disapproves such a plan; or (2) finds that no plan has been submitted by a State, that a State plan approved under this Act has been so changed that it no longer complies with the requirements of this Act, that plan administration fails to comply substantially with any such provisions, or that a grantee is in violation of title II of this Act, the Secretary shall notify the grantee that further payments will not be made to the grantee under this title or any other educational assistance program until he is satisfied that there will no longer be any failure to comply. Provides that, until he is so satisfied, the Secretary shall make no further payments under such titles. Provides for review of the Secretary's action in such cases by the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit in which the claimant State is located. Title III: General Provisions and Definitions - Defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
National Aeronautics and Space Administration Authorization Act - Authorizes the appropriation of designated sums to the National Aeronautics and Space Administration for research and development programs, construction of facilities including land acquisition, and research and program management. Permits utilization of research and development appropriations for: (1) items of a capital nature which may be required at locations other than installations of the Administration for the performance of research and development contracts, and (2) grants to nonprofit institutions of higher education, or to nonprofit organizations whose primary purpose is the conduct of scientific research, for purchase or construction of additional research facilities. Sets forth further guidelines regarding the use and availability of funds appropriated pursuant to this Act. Specifies procedures where amounts designated for specific programs may be varied upward and whereby up to one half of one percent of the funds appropriated for research and development may be combined with $10,000,000 of funds appropriated for facility construction to construct or modify laboratories or other installations deemed by the Administration to be immediatley needed. Prohibits utilization of sums appropriated pursuant to this Act for: (1) any research or management program in excess of the amount specifically authorized for that program, (2) any program deleted by Congress from requests originally made, or (3) any program which has not been presented to either the House Committee on Science and Technology or the Senate Committee on Aeronautical and Space Sciences unless each such Committee has been given notice of any such proposed action and transmits written notice to the Administration that it has no objection. Directs the Administration to consider geographical distribution whenever feasible in allocating its research and development funds. Authorizes the Administration, when so provided in appropriation Acts, to enter into and to maintain a contract for tracking and data relay satellite services. Establishes an additional Associate Administrator for Advanced Research and Technology within the Administration. Revises the compensation of members of the Aerospace Safety Advisory Panel. Expresses the sense of Congress regarding the need for, and the construction, modernization, and availability of aeronautical test facilities. Declares that Congress finds that the general welfare of the United States requires application of the Administration's expertise to ground propulsion systems research and development.
United States · United States Congress · 11 March 1976
Revises the Internal Revenue Code to provide that the allowable dollar amount of the tax deduction taken for a charitable contribution which is of a musical, artistic, or similar nature shall be the fair market value of such property at the time of contribution.
United States · United States Congress · 9 March 1976
Title I: Drug Safety Amendments - Requires, under the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, the insertion on packages of any drug which may be sold only upon prescription, the name and place of business of the manufacturer of the final dosage form of the drug and, if different, the name and place of business of the packer or distributor and, in the case of any other drug or device, the name and place of business of the manufacturer, packer, or distributor. Requires reports on, and recordkeeping pertaining to, clinical and preclinical investigation of drugs or substances intended for use as a drug. Provides that if the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare determines that any information obtained or received by him reasonably supports a conclusion that such a drug introduced for commercial distribution may present a significant hazard to human health, or may cause cancer in animals, he shall mail or cause to be mailed to all practitioners licensed by law to administer drugs, a summary of such information. Provides for the conditional approval of new drugs by the Secretary. Authorizes the Secretary to immediately suspend approval of a drug application upon the finding that a condition has not been met. Authorizes the Secretary, acting through the National Institutes of Health and in consultation with the Commissioner of the Food and Drug Administration, to support studies of the short-term or long-term use of any drug and of drugs with alternative forms of therapy and studies involving the comparison of drugs. Authorizes the appropriation of $10,000,000 for each fiscal year for such studies. Requires the Secretary to make an annual report to the Congress respecting the activities undertaken or supported under this title. Title II: Food and Drug Administration - Food and Administration Act - Establishes a Food and Drug Administration within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare. Directs the President to appoint, with the advice and consent the Senate, a Commissioner of the Administration. Directs the Commissioner to: (1) attempt to eliminate products presenting unreasonable risk of disease, injury, or death; (2) establish a capability within the Commission to engage in risk-based analysis; (3) establish an interdisciplinary epidemiology capability and undertake investigations to facilitate regulation-making and to assist in risk-based analysis; (4) establish a scientific capability within the Administration to assist in hazard detection, test method development, and quality control requirements; and (5) utilize field operations to conduct product evaluation, facilitate detection of conditions associated with products subject to his jurisdiction which might lead to disease, injury, or death, to monitor compliance with required levels of safety performance, to report violations, and to assist in enforcement actions.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
Amends the Federal Aviation Act of 1958 to require the Civil Aeronautics Board, in determining the compensation for any local service air carrier for mail for the year 1966, to apply a specified subsidy rate. Exempts from such determination any decrease in the Federal income tax liability of such carrier in such year resulting from any capital loss carry back pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code. Directs the Board, if such decreases in tax liability was taken into account, to redetermine the compensation to be paid to such air carrier and to make payment of any amount owed to such carrier as provided in such redetermination.
United States · United States Congress · 4 March 1976
States that the purpose of this Act is to improve the responsiveness of Federal agencies to citizens' complaints and inquiries. Requires the head of each Federal agency to submit within 90 days after the enactment of this Act a report to Congress giving a description of administrative procedures used to handle such citizens' complaints and inquiries and the resources employed in responding to such inquiries. Directs each agency head to take such steps, including publication in the Federal Register, as he determines will improve the uniformity, speed, and comprehensiveness of each agency's response to such inquiries. Requires each agency head to submit to Congress a report within 270 days after enactment of this Act summarizing the inquiries received, the responses made, and the time taken for such response. Requires such report to contain any recommendation such agency has with respect to legislation which Congress should enact to improve such agency's handling of such inquiries. Requires that in allocating funds in the annual congressional budget the appropriate committees must give due consideration to agency efforts to carry out the purpose of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 3 March 1976
Authorizes payment under the supplementary medical insurance program of title XVIII (Medicare) of the Social Security Act for optometric and medical vision care.
United States · United States Congress · 26 February 1976
Authorizes appropriations under the Federal Fire Prevention and Control Act of $15,000,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $20,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Authorizes appropriations for fire research and safety of $5,500,000 for fiscal year 1977 and $6,000,000 for fiscal year 1978. Prohibits the Administrator of the National Fire Prevention and Control Administration from conducting fire research without the specific authorization of the Secretary of Commerce.
United States · United States Congress · 25 February 1976
Provides, under the Legislative Reorganization Act, that pay adjustments for Members of Congress may take effect no earlier than the beginning of the Congress next following the Congress in which they are approved.
United States · United States Congress · 19 February 1976
Directs the Secretary of the Interior to make payments on a fiscal year basis to each unit of local government in which are located (1) lands within the National Park System, the National Wilderness Preservation System, or the National Forest System, (2) lands administered by the Secretary through the Bureau of Land Management, or (3) lands dedicated to the use of Federal water resource development projects. Reduces the amount payable to any local government by the amount received by such government under specified Federal programs. Directs the Secretary to make additional payments to local governments for five fiscal years with respect to lands acquired by the United States for addition to the National Park System or National Wilderness Preservation System after December 31, 1970, which were subject to local real property taxes within five years preceding such acquisition. Excludes specified units of local government in California and Oregon and all units of local government in Alaska from the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1976
Redefines "firearm" under the Omnibus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 and "any other weapon" under the National Firearms Act to include electric weapons for purposes of regulation of the sale, manufacture, importation, transportation and taxation of such weapons.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1976
Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to establish as an independent establishment of the Executive branch the Federal Election Commission whose members are the Secretary of the Senate (ex officio), the Clerk of the House (ex officio), and six members appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. States that no more than three members appointed by the President may be affiliated with the same party.
United States · United States Congress · 18 February 1976
Government Economy and Spending Reform Act - Title I: Authorizations of New Budget Authority - Terminates on specified dates budget authority for all Government programs except health care services, general retirement and disability insurance, and Federal employee retirement and disability programs which are funded by trust funds. Declares out of order in either the Senate or the House of Representatives any legislation which authorizes new budget authority not in compliance with this Act. Requires the Committees on Appropriations and the Committees on the Budget of both Houses of Congress to identify each program's functional and subfunctional category (as so characterized in the Budget of the United States, Fiscal Year 1977, transmitted to Congress by the President on January 21, 1976), the committees having legislative jurisdiction over such program, and whether such program operates under permanent authorizations and budget authority. Makes the budget termination provisions of this Act effective on the first day of the Ninety-fifth Congress. Title II: Early Elimination of Inactive and Duplicate Programs - Requires the Comptroller General of the United States to identify for Congress any programs which have duplicate objectives or for which no outlays have been made for the last two fiscal years. Directs the standing committees of both Houses to consider such programs and report recommendations on such programs before March 15, 1978, if possible. Title III: Quadrennial Program Review and Evaluation - Sets forth a timetable for reviewing the budget of a Government program. Requires review by standing committees of the Congress every four years of each program's cost, effectiveness, and the extent to which such program duplicates or is similar to any other program. States that such review shall include a comprehensive evaluation of the merits of such program to determine if it warrants continuation. Requires justification of any recommendation to fund any program which has objectives similar to or the same as another program's objectives. Directs the Comptroller General and the Congressional Budget Office to provide Congress with information and analysis of programs being reviewed under this Act. Requires the President to similarly review the merits of continuing programs contained in the annual Budget and to report the finding of such review prior to transmitting the Budget to Congress. Title IV: Continuing Review and Evaluation - Directs the Comptroller General to report to Congress the result of any audit which shows a substantial deficiency in achievement of the objectives of any Government program. Requires subsequent audits, a report of which must be submitted to Congress, to determine if such deficiency has been eliminated. Title V: Miscellaneous - States that those provisions of this Act which direct the operation of either House are enacted as an exercise of the rulemaking power of such House and recognizes the right of either House to change such rules.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Regulatory Reform Act - States Congress' finding that Government economic regulation has become a burden to American business, consumers, and the economy. Requires the President to submit at least once a year for five years a plan to eliminate regulation which has led to inflationary consumer prices or a reduction of competition. Directs that each plan establish more efficient organizational and administrative forms for the regulation of commerce and include provisions necessary to modify or abolish existing agencies and functions so as to eliminate overlapping regulatory jurisdictions and anti-competitive regulations. Requires that such reformation plan be directed toward regulation in the areas of: (1) banking and finance; (2) energy and environment; (3) commerce, and transportation; (4) food, health, safety, and trade practices; and (5) labor, housing, and small business. Defines terms used in this Act. Provides for Congressional review of such plan. Provides that if Congress fails to pass any regulatory reform legislation by a specified date after the President submits his plan to the Congress, such plan shall become effective as of a specified date and all rules of any agency described in such plan shall be of no force or effect.
United States · United States Congress · 11 February 1976
Amends the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1974 to establish as an independent establishment of the Executive Branch the Federal Election Commission, consisting of the Secretary of the Senate (ex officio), the Clerk of the House (ex officio), and six members appointed by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. States that more than three members appointed by the President may be affiliated with the same party. Sets members' terms at six years with one members' term expiring every year. States that members will be chosen from among individuals who are not currently elected or appointed as an officer or employee of any branch of the Government of the United States, except current members of the Federal Election Commission.
United States · United States Congress · 9 February 1976
Amends the Internal Revenue Code to allow a deduction for donations of blood to charitable organizations in an amount equal to $25 for each pint donated. Limits the aggregate amount of donations which shall be deductible to $125 in any taxable year.
United States · United States Congress · 4 February 1976
Small Business Estate and Gift Tax Reform Act - Revises, under the Internal Revenue Code, the rate of tax imposed on transfers of taxable estates. Increases the present $60,000 exemption from such tax to $80,000 in 1976, $100,000 in 1978, and $120,000 in 1980. Alters possible gift tax exemptions of a decedent's estate in 1980. Provides that in the computation of the value of a taxable estate, where a bequest is made to the surviving spouse, the limitation on the aggregate of deductions is revised from 50 percent to $240,000 plus 50 percent of the excess of the adjusted gross estate. Incorporates in the determination of the value of a decedent's property held as farming property or scenic open property, the consideration of any effective restrictions on its use for other purposes. Increases the gift tax exemption from $30,000 to $60,000. Allows a taxpayer to claim, under conditions prescribed by the Secretary of the Treasury or his delegate, an additional exemption which would otherwise be allowed his estate upon his death. Revises the gift tax exemption permitted for gifts to spouses from one half of the transferred property's value to so much of its value as does not exceed $240,000, plus one half of the excess. Extends from 10 to 15 the number of equal installments in which estate taxes on an estate consisting largely of an interest in closely held business may be paid. Permits the Secretary or his delegate, with the taxpayer's consent, to impose a lien on the closely held business assets which constitute the basis for the extension. Allows such lien in lieu of requiring a bond, but treats it as a bond for purposes of the discharge of fiduciary liability. Requires the Secretary or his delegate to study: (1) hardship extensions of the time for payment of estate tax and installments thereof; and (2) extensions of time for payment of estate tax where the estate consists largely of an interest in a closely held business as such extensions affect decisions to continue or dispose of a small or closely held business. Orders a report of such study to be submitted to Congress within 12 months of enactment of these provisions, such report to include findings, conclusions, and recommendations for legislation.
United States · United States Congress · 29 January 1976
Authorizes the President to issue a proclamation designating the week beginning April 4, 1976, as "National Rural Health Week." Urges improved health services and intensified dissemination of health information for rural America.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Establishes an 11 member Commission on the Humane Treatment of Animals to study the treatment of animals. Requires that the membership include zoologists, veterinarians, and representatives from humane societies. Requires the Commission to determine if animals are caused needless pain or suffering as a result of their treatment: (1) on farms; (2) in zoos; (3) in laboratory experimentation; and (4) in other situations. Excludes the study or treatment of animals occurring in connection with the exercise of any religion. Directs the Commission to report its findings to the Congress and the President within two years after its last member is appointed. Terminates the Commission 60 days after it submits its final report. Authorizes appropriaions of $750,000 per year to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Applies to the United States Postal Service provisions requiring that buildings built, leased, or financed by the United States be designed and constructed to insure ready access to and use of such buildings by the physically handicapped.
United States · United States Congress · 27 January 1976
Expresses the sense of the House of Representatives that the people of Angola should be allowed to determine their own political future without foreign interference. Expresses support for efforts by the Organization of African Unity to achieve a settlement of the conflict in Angola. Calls upon all countries to terminate military assistance to any group in Angola. States that the President should do his utmost to seek an agreement among the various parties involved in hostilities or in the support of such hostilities in Angola to terminate such hostilities. Directs the President to refrain from providing assistance of any kind, for military activities in Angola, until specifically approved by Congress.
United States · United States Congress · 22 January 1976
Government in the Sunshine Act - States that this Act applies to the Federal Election Commission and to any agency where the collegial body comprising the agency consists of two or more individual members, at least a majority of whom are appointed to such position by the President with the advice and consent of the Senate. Provides that all meetings of such collegial body, or of a subdivision thereof authorized to take action on behalf of the agency, shall be open to the public. Requires such agency to make public announcement, at least one week before the meeting, of the date, place, and subject matter of the meeting, whether open or closed to the public, and the name and phone number of the official designated by the agency to respond to requests for information about the meeting. Exempts meetings when publicity would result in disclosure of matters: (1) necessary to keep secret in the interests of national defense or foreign policy; (2) not warranting an invasion of personal privacy; (3) constituting trade secrets; and (4) other matters the disclosure of which would not be in the public interest. States that the district courts of the United States shall have jurisdiction to enforce the requirements of this Act by declaratory judgment, injunctive relief, or other relief as may be appropriate. Prohibits the making of an ex parte communication relevant to the merits of the proceeding by an interested person outside the agency to anyone involved in the decisional process of the proceedings.
United States · United States Congress · 19 December 1975
National Mental Health and Disability Advocacy Services Act - Sets forth the policy of the Congress that before any person may be involuntarily committed to a mental hospital, all court and administrative proceedings must comport with due process of law, including, but not limited to, the right of counsel. States that to help solve patients' problems which do not require litigation, yet require aid, advice, or counseling, an ombudsperson system must be provided to which all clients of any mental health, mental retardation, or geriatric care system may have access. Establishes an office of Mental Health and Disability Advocacy Services. Directs the Office to enter into contracts with States to assist them in meeting the costs of establishing and maintaining a program of mental health advocacy services. States that such contracts may not exceed 75 percent of the costs incurred in the program. Provides that the program shall include a mental health, retardation, and geriatric system ombudsperson. Prohibits any State from receiving assistance under the Community Mental Health Centers Act unless such State has established and maintains a mental health advocacy services program. Defines terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Regulatory Agency Self-Destruct Act - Provides that each Federal regulatory agency is abolished as of noon July 4, 1976, unless, prior to such date: (1) the President conducts an investigation of the agency's overall performance (including, but not limited to a study of the agency's effectiveness in accomplishing its general purposes and promoting the public welfare), makes public a report on the findings of the investigation and recommends to the Congress that such agency or agencies should not be abolished; (2) the relevant committee or committees of the House and Senate conduct an inquiry into the performance and effectiveness of the agency or agencies and make public a report of such findings, conclusions, and recommendations; and (3) the Congress adopts a concurrent resolution disapproving the abolition of the agency or agencies. Defines "Federal regulatory agency" to mean any of the following: (1) the Civil Aeronautics Board; (2) the Federal Communications Commission; (3) the Federal Maritime Commission; (4) the Federal Power Commission; (5) the Federal Trade Commission; (6) the Interstate Commerce Commission; (7) the Securities and Exchange Commission; (8) the Consumer Product Safety Commission; and (9) the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Provides that each Federal regulatory agency not abolished by the above procedure, or any successor agency established pursuant to this Act, shall be abolished on July 4, 1983, except that those agencies which have been in existence for 25 years or less shall be abolished on July 4, 1991, unless the President and the Congress take action as described above to disapprove such abolition. States that each regulatory agency established by the Congress on or after July 1, 1974, shall be abolished fifteen years from the date on which it is first empowered to exercise its functions and duties according to the Act creating such agency unless the President and the Congress take such action as described above to disapprove such abolition. Requires that before January 2, 1976, and on or before a date six months prior to each date of abolition of an agency as specified in this Act, the President shall prepare and submit to the Congress a plan for the orderly transfer of such functions, powers, and duties, if any, as are determined by the President to be essential to the public health, safety, or welfare, from an agency, which is subject to the termination provisions of this Act, to the President or to a successor agency designated by the President. Provides that all orders, determinations, rules, regulations, permits, certificates, licenses, contracts, rates, and privileges which have been issued, made, granted, or allowed to become effective by a Federal regulatory agency abolished by this Act or by any court of competent jurisdiction, under any provision of law affected by this Act, and which are in effect at the time these provisions take effect, shall continue in effect according to their terms until modified, terminated, superseded, set aside, or repealed by the President, the head of a designated successor agency or by any court of competent jurisdiction, or by operation of law.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Regulatory Agency Appointment Reform Act - Sets forth the purposes of the Act which include, the establishment of a bipartisan nominating board to submit to the President lists of individuals qualified to be appointed as commissioners of specified regulatory agencies, to provide a selection process which will insure a reduction of political influence in such selections, to provide methods to insure that official actions taken by commissioners shall not be influenced by considerations of reappointment, and to prohibit commissioners of a regulatory agency from accepting employment in an organization regulated by such agency during the 24-month period immediately after the termination of the commissioner's service on such agency. Defines terms used in this Act. Establishes as an independent agency of the Federal Government, the Federal Regulatory Agency Nominating Board to carry out the provisions of this Act. Requires each member of the Board to file an annual financial disclosure report with the Comptroller General. Provides that commissioners of regulatory agencies may only be appointed by the President, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, from among the individuals nominated pursuant to this Act. Prohibits an individual who has been appointed as a commissioner of a regulatory agency from being appointed at any time thereafter as commissioner of such regulatory agency and, within one year after the termination of his service as a commissioner of such regulatory agency, from being appointed as commissioner of any other regulatory agency. Provides that an individual who has served as a commissioner of a regulatory agency may not represent any person before such agency in a professional capacity, or accept any employment with or compensation from any industry or for-profit organization directly affected by the activities of such agency. Directs that such prohibitions shall be enforced for the 24-month period beginning on the date on which services as a commissioner were terminated.
United States · United States Congress · 18 December 1975
Franchising Practices Reform Act - Requires a franchisor to notify a franchisee at least ninety days in advance of the franchisor's intention to terminate the franchise, and the franchisor's reasons for terminating. Prohibits a franchisor from cancelling a franchise unless the franchisor has acted in bad faith, or has violated a material requirement of the franchise, or the franchisor is effecting a market area withdrawal. Prohibits a franchisor from failing to renew a franchise except for the reasons stated above, or the franchisor has a legitmate business reason for failing to renew. Makes any franchisor that has violated the requirements of this Act civilly liable to the aggrieved franchisee.
United States · United States Congress · 17 December 1975
States that there shall be at the head of the National Bureau of Standards a Director and Deputy Director appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Grants the Director the general supervision of the Bureau, its equipment, and the exercise of its functions. Requires an annual report to the President. Permits the issuance of bulletins to the public by the Director.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1975
Medical Device Amendments - Provides for the classification of medical devices intended for human use based upon their safety and effectiveness. Describes such classification as follows: (1) Class I includes devices not purported to be for a use which is of substantial importance in supporting, sustaining, or preventing impairment of human life or health and do not present a potential unreasonable risk of illness or injury, and for which general controls, as defined are sufficient; (2) Class II includes devices for which it is necessary to establish a performance standard to provide reasonable assurance of their safety and effectiveness; and (3) Class III includes devices for which there is insufficient information for the establishment of a performance standard to provide reasonable assurance of their safety and effectiveness, are purported to be for a use which is of substantial importance in supporting, sustaining, or preventing impairment of human life or health, or present a potential unreasonable risk of illness or injury. Gives the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare responsibility for classifying all such devices. Authorizes the Secretary to establish panels of experts for the purpose of securing recommendations with respect to such classifications. Provides that any such recommendation shall contain a summary of the data upon which the recommendation is based, and an identification of the risks to health presented by the device. Provides that, based on new information respecting a device, the Secretary may, upon his own initiative or upon petition of any interested person, by regulation: (1) change the classification of such device; and (2) revoke, because of the change, any regulation in effect with respect to such device. Authorizes the Secretary, by regulation, to establish a performance standard for a Class II device. Sets forth criteria to be followed in such standard which will assure that the device is safe and effective. Directs the Secretary to provide for periodic evaluation of performance standards established under this Act. Establishes procedures to be followed by the Secretary in developing and changing such standards. Provides that the Secretary shall publish in the Federal Register a notice inviting any person, including any Federal agency, to submit an existing standard or an offer to develop such a standard. Requires the Secretary to obtain from the offeror such information concerning the offeror as the Secretary determines is necessary to disclose potential conflicts of interests and the reliability of the offeror. States that if a standard or offer to create a standard is submitted to the Secretary which he does not accept, he shall publish in the Federal Register notice of that fact together with the reasons therefor. Authorizes the Secretary to accept offers to develop a proposed standard for a device. Allows the Secretary to contribute to the offeror's costs in developing a proposed standard. Provides for the development of performance standards by the Secretary when no other means are available. Requires premarket approval for Class III devices. Establishes procedures for such approval. Sets forth criteria upon which the approval or disapproval of such devices shall be based, including a lack of reasonable assurances by the applicant that such device is safe for use under the conditions prescribed in the proposed labeling. Allows the Secretary to withdraw his premarket approval of a device in specified circumstances. Sets forth procedures to be followed for the withdrawal of such approval. States that in the case of a class III device which is required to have an approval of an application submitted, such device shall be considered as having such an approval if a notice of completion of testing conducted in accordance with a product development protocol has been completed as required in the Act. Authorizes the Secretary to ban devices intended for human use if he finds that: (1) they present a substantial deception or a substantial risk of illness or human injury; and (2) such deception or risk could be eliminated by corrective labeling but the manufactuer does not do so. Sets forth procedures governing the banning of such devices. Provides that the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia shall hear appeals by any person adversely affected by a decision, rule, or order, of the Secretary under this Act. Provides that if the Secretary determines that a device intended for human use presents an unreasonable risk of substantial harm to the public health, and that notification of such risk is necessary, he may issue such order as may be necessary to assure that adequate notification is provided by the persons and means best suited under the circumstances, to all persons who should receive such notification in order to eliminate such risk. Authorizes the Secretary to require a manufacturer of a medical device intended for human use which: (1) presents a substantial risk of harm to the public health; and (2) was not properly designed or manufactured, to repair, replace, or refund the purchase price of such device at no cost to the person using it. Requires every person who is a manufacturer, importer, or distributor of a medical device intended for human use to establish and maintain such records as the Secretary may by regulation direct. Authorizes the Secretary to require that a device be limited to sale or distribution by prescription of a licensed medical practioner. Authorizes the Secretary to establish mandatory manufacturing methods for medical devices. Directs the Secretary to prescribe procedures under which devices intended for human use may be granted an exemption from the requirements of this Act to permit the investigational use of such devices by experts qualified by scientific training and experience to investigate the safety and effectiveness of such devices. Requires the Secretary to promulgate regulations under which a detailed summary of information respecting the safety and effectiveness of a device shall be made available to the public. States that such summaries shall include information respecting adverse effects of the device on health. Makes conforming amendments to the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Extends specified sections of such Act relating to labeling, inspection, and seizures to medical devices. Requires manufacturers of medical devices intended for human use to register with the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare and to provide specified information concerning such devices. Directs the Secretary to establish within the Department of Health, Education, and Welfare an identifiable office to provide technical and other nonfinancial assistance to small manufacturers of medical devices to assist them in complying with the requirements of the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1975
Allows foreign countries and agencies thereof and foreign companies to purchase and store United States agricultural commodities or the products thereof in the United States. Provides that such agricultural commodities or products, if so purchased and stored as a reserve for a period of twelve months or longer upon approval by the Secretary of Agriculture, may be exported without regard to any export restraints or controls.
United States · United States Congress · 11 December 1975
Requests the President to review foreign assistance programs involving governments which have supported actions in the United Nations which are contrary to the principles and interests of the United States. Calls for an end to any new aid commitments to such governments pending the completion of the review. Requests, as a part of such review, identification of United Nations programs which may no longer be compatible with the principles and interests of the United States. Requests the President to submit to the Congress, a report of the results of the review along with recommendations concerning the programs reviewed.
United States · United States Congress · 3 December 1975
Increases the amount of money paid to States and counties for forest services and watershed protection from 25 percent of the cost of State programs to 75 percent.
United States · United States Congress · 2 December 1975
National Educational Opportunities Act - Title I: Definition and Guarantee of a Unitary School System and Equal Educational Opportunity - Provides that each State and its local educational agencies shall establish and maintain desegregated, unitary school systems which offer equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of race, color, or national origin. States that a desegregrated unitary school system shall be presumed to exist unless a State or local educational agency denies equal educational opportunities to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by specified acts which have the natural, probable, foreseeable, or actual effect of segregating students on the basis of race, color or national origin. Prohibits local educational agencies from denying equal educational opportunity to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by maintenance of practices or provision of resources in schools in which minority students are concentrated that are less favorable for educational success and advancement than in schools attended primarily by students of any other race, color, or national origin. Gives examples of such denials of equal educational opportunity. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action in Federal court for equitable relief in any case where he has reasonable cause to believe that the provisions of this Act are being violated. Title II: State Equal Educational Opportunities Plans - Requires each State to prepare and submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for his approval a plan to carry out the purpose of this Act. Requires that such plan shall provide for the establishment of State and local advisory bodies to advise State and local educational agencies on development and participation in such plans. Requires such plans to provide a viable mechanism for States and local educational systems to implement a policy of equal educational opportunities that delineates the fundamental prerequisites for a desegregated, unitary school system. Provides that such State plans shall include specific means for implementing some or all of the following components: (1) a majority transfer plan on both an intradistrict and interdistrict basis; (2) an open communities educational resources compensation program which shall provide for payments to any school district in which students from minority families comprised not more than 10 percent of total school enrollment during the school year 1976-1977, or in which students from low-income families comprised not more than 10 percent of total enrollment in such district during such year; (3) a school district reorganization plan; and (4) an approved, concentrated compensatory education program for basic instructional programs, supportive services, and vocational guidance and for programs having potential for improving the achievement performance of educationally deprived students. Authorizes to be appropriated for carrying out this title not in excess of $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $500,000,000 for each fiscal year for the next three fiscal years. Provides a formula for allotment of such funds to the States and for allocation among various programs and agencies. States that whenever the Secretary, after reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing: (1) disapproves such a plan; or (2) finds that no plan has been submitted by a State, that a State plan approved under this Act has been so changed that it no longer complies with the requirements of this Act, that plan administration fails to comply substantially with any such provisions, or that a grantee is in violation of title II of this Act, the Secretary shall notify the grantee that further payments will not be made to the grantee under this title or any other educational enrichment of desegregation assistance program until he is satisfied that there will no longer be any failure to comply. Provides that, until he is so satisfied, the Secretary shall make no further payments under such titles. Provides for review of the Secretary's action in such cases by the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit in which the claimant State is located. Title III: General Provisions and Definitions - Defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
Food Stamp Reform Act - Eliminates the requirement, under the Food Stamp Act, that individuals receiving supplemental security income benefits under title XVI (grantss to States for the Aged, Blind or Disabled) of the Social Security Act shall not be considered eligible for food stamps if the supplemental income payments include the bonus value of food stamps. States that households in which a member is eligible to participate in the nutrition program for the elderly under the Older Americans Act, or is authorized to use coupons for meals on wheels, shall not be required to have cooking facilities. Modifies the eligibility standards for students. Lowers the work registration age limit for eligibility purposes from 65 to 60. States that the actual value of employer-provided housing (up to $25 per month) shall be taken into account for eligibility purposes. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture, in computing eligibility, to allow a standard deduction of $125 plus $25 for each elderly person, after deductions for disaster or casualty losses, taxes, and other mandatory deductions. Eliminates the purchase price requirement and establishes an income formula for determining eligibility. Requires the Secretary to carry out a nutrition education program for recipients, including distribution of printed materials designed to teach recipients how to buy and prepare nutritious and economical meals. States that wrongfully denied food coupons shall be restored through a lump sum cash payment. Requires bilingual assistance to be made available in areas where numerous potentially eligible persons speak a language other than English. Directs the Secretary to conduct a survey and report to Congress on the average and distribution of assets held by participants in the food stamp program. Authorizes the Secretary to carry out pilot experiments for purposes of increasing the program's efficiency and improving the delivery of benefits to eligible households.
United States · United States Congress · 20 November 1975
National Educational Opportunities Act - Title I: Definition and Guarantee of a Unitary School System and Equal Educational Opportunity - Provides that each State and its local educational agencies shall establish and maintain desegregated, unitary school systems which offer equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of race, color, or national origin. States that a desegregrated unitary school system shall be presumed to exist unless a State or local educational agency denies equal educational opportunities to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by specified acts which have the natural, probable, foreseeable, or actual effect of segregating students on the basis of race, color or national origin. Prohibits local educational agencies from denying equal educational opportunity to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by maintenance of practices or provision of resources in schools in which minority students are concentrated that are less favorable for educational success and advancement than in schools attended primarily by students of any other race, color, or national origin. Gives examples of such denials of equal educational opportunity. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action in Federal court for equitable relief in any case where he has reasonable cause to believe that the provisions of this Act are being violated. Title II: State Equal Educational Opportunities Plans - Requires each State to prepare and submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for his approval a plan to carry out the purpose of this Act. Requires that such plan shall provide for the establishment of State and local advisory bodies to advise State and local educational agencies on development and participation in such plans. Requires such plans to provide a viable mechanism for States and local educational systems to implement a policy of equal educational opportunities that delineates the fundamental prerequisites for a desegregated, unitary school system. Provides that such State plans shall include specific means for implementing some or all of the following components: (1) a majority transfer plan on both an intradistrict and interdistrict basis; (2) an open communities educational resources compensation program which shall provide for payments to any school district in which students from minority families comprised not more than 10 percent of total school enrollment during the school year 1976-1977, or in which students from low-income families comprised not more than 10 percent of total enrollment in such district during such year; (3) a school district reorganization plan; and (4) an approved, concentrated compensatory education program for basic instructional programs, supportive services, and vocational guidance and for programs having potential for improving the achievement performance of educationally deprived students. Authorizes to be appropriated for carrying out this title not in excess of $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $500,000,000 for each fiscal year for the next three fiscal years. Provides a formula for allotment of such funds to the States and for allocation among various programs and agencies. States that whenever the Secretary, after reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing: (1) disapproves such a plan; or (2) finds that no plan has been submitted by a State, that a State plan approved under this Act has been so changed that it no longer complies with the requirements of this Act, that plan administration fails to comply substantially with any such provisions, or that a grantee is in violation of title II of this Act, the Secretary shall notify the grantee that further payments will not be made to the grantee under this title or any other educational enrichment of desegregation assistance program until he is satisfied that there will no longer be any failure to comply. Provides that, until he is so satisfied, the Secretary shall make no further payments under such titles. Provides for review of the Secretary's action in such cases by the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit in which the claimant State is located. Title III: General Provisions and Definitions - Defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 12 November 1975
National Educational Opportunities Act - Title I: Definition and Guarantee of a Unitary School System and Equal Educational Opportunity - Provides that each State and its local educational agencies shall establish and maintain desegregated, unitary school systems which offer equal educational opportunities to all students, regardless of race, color, or national origin. States that a desegregrated unitary school system shall be presumed to exist unless a State or local educational agency denies equal educational opportunities to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by specified acts which have the natural, probable, foreseeable, or actual effect of segregating students on the basis of race, color or national origin. Prohibits local educational agencies from denying equal educational opportunity to an individual on account of race, color, or national origin by maintenance of practices or provision of resources in schools in which minority students are concentrated that are less favorable for educational success and advancement than in schools attended primarily by students of any other race, color, or national origin. Gives examples of such denials of equal educational opportunity. Authorizes the Attorney General to bring a civil action in Federal court for equitable relief in any case where he has reasonable cause to believe that the provisions of this Act are being violated. Title II: State Equal Educational Opportunities Plans - Requires each State to prepare and submit to the Secretary of Health, Education, and Welfare for his approval a plan to carry out the purpose of this Act. Requires that such plan shall provide for the establishment of State and local advisory bodies to advise State and local educational agencies on development and participation in such plans. Requires such plans to provide a viable mechanism for States and local educational systems to implement a policy of equal educational opportunities that delineates the fundamental prerequisites for a desegregated, unitary school system. Provides that such State plans shall include specific means for implementing some or all of the following components: (1) a majority transfer plan on both an intradistrict and interdistrict basis; (2) an open communities educational resources compensation program which shall provide for payments to any school district in which students from minority families comprised not more than 10 percent of total school enrollment during the school year 1976-1977, or in which students from low-income families comprised not more than 10 percent of total enrollment in such district during such year; (3) a school district reorganization plan; and (4) an approved, concentrated compensatory education program for basic instructional programs, supportive services, and vocational guidance and for programs having potential for improving the achievement performance of educationally deprived students. Authorizes to be appropriated for carrying out this title not in excess of $200,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, $500,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and $500,000,000 for each fiscal year for the next three fiscal years. Provides a formula for allotment of such funds to the States and for allocation among various programs and agencies. States that whenever the Secretary, after reasonable notice and opportunity for a hearing: (1) disapproves such a plan; or (2) finds that no plan has been submitted by a State, that a State plan approved under this Act has been so changed that it no longer complies with the requirements of this Act, that plan administration fails to comply substantially with any such provisions, or that a grantee is in violation of title II of this Act, the Secretary shall notify the grantee that further payments will not be made to the grantee under this title or any other educational enrichment of desegregation assistance program until he is satisfied that there will no longer be any failure to comply. Provides that, until he is so satisfied, the Secretary shall make no further payments under such titles. Provides for review of the Secretary's action in such cases by the United States Court of Appeals for the circuit in which the claimant State is located. Title III: General Provisions and Definitions - Defines the terms used in this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
Authorizes the Secretary of the Interior, in consultation with the heads of other departments affected by this Act, to issue and revise regulations from time to time, relating to the trapping and capturing of animals and birds. Imposes a fine of $500 and/or imprisonment of up to one year for violations of this Act. Establishes an advisory commission of 7 members to consult with the Secretary and make recommendations with respect to regulations concerning trapping and capturing of animals and birds. Imposes a fine of $5,000 and/or imprisonment or of one year, for the sale, shipment, or transport, of any unapproved trap or any animal skin or hide or bird feathers taken in violation of this Act. Outlines those trapping regulations specifically applicable to Federal lands. Authorizes the Secretary to enter into cooperative agreements with any affected State pursuant to which the Secretary shall assist such State to enable it to comply with the provisions of this Act. Authorizes to be appropriated such sums as may be necessary to carry out the provisions of this Act.
United States · United States Congress · 6 November 1975
Establishes a select committee in the House of Representatives to conduct an investigation of the circumstances surrounding the death of John F. Kennedy. Directs the committee to report to the House as soon as practicable during the present Congress the results of its investigation, together with such recommendation as it deems advisable.
United States · United States Congress · 4 November 1975
Increases the amount of money paid to States and counties for forest services and watershed protection from 25 percent of the cost of State programs to 75 percent.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 1975
Clean Air Act Amendments - Authorizes the appropriation of specified sums for fiscal years 1976 through 1978 for Federal enforcement procedures, vehicle and other equipment procurement, and other programs for air pollution control under the Clean Air Act. Title I: Amendments Relating Primarily to Stationary Sources - Provides for the regulation of air pollution caused by vinyl chloride, cadmium, arsenic, and polycyclic organic matter found to be causes of or contributing to endangering public health. Directs the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency to promulgate a national primary ambient air quality standard for specified gas concentrations. Requires a study of the effect on the public health and welfare of sulfates, vinyl chloride, and other matter present in the ambient air. Stipulates the basis for administrattive standards under the Clean Air Act. Defines terms under such Act. Defines "hazardous air pollutant" for purposes of such Act as meaning an air pollutant to which no ambient air quality standard is applicable and which in the judgment of the Administrator causes, or contributes to, air pollution which may reasonably be anticipated to result in an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible, or incapacitating reversible, illnesss. Authorizes extensions of Federal compliance dates for State plans under the Clean Air Act. Authorizes the collection of excess emission fees under the Clean Air Act. Directs the Administrator, at the time a compliance date extension is granted or approved under such Act to any major stationary source of air pollution, to determine whether or not the circumstances which made such source eligible for such extension were primarily beyond the control of the owner or operator of such source. Provides for major stationary sources granted compliance date extensions under such Act to pay fees based on the amount of any air pollutant emitted by such sources in excess of the requirement with respect to which such extensions are granted if the circumstances which made such sources eligible for such extensions were not primarily beyond the control of the owners or operators of such sources. Provides for compliance date extensions for purposes of converting fuel burners to coal use through 1980. Provides under the Clean Air Act for measures designed to protect the stratrosphere, and the ozone in the stratosphere. Requires the Administrator to conduct a study of the cumulative effect of all substances and activities which may affect the stratosphere. Directs the Administrator to establish a Coordinating Committee for the coordination of the efforts of other Federal agencies carrying out research and studies related to research on stratospheric protection. Repaires a report to the Congress on the work of such Committee. Title II: Amendments Relating Primarily to Mobile Sources - Directs the Administrator to conduct a study on the necessity and effectiveness of indirect source review programs which are contained in State implementation plans in reducing or preventing any projected increase in emissions of any mobile source-related air pollutant. Requires a report to the Congress on the results of such study. Sets limitations upon controls of indirect pollution sources promulgated by the Administrator. Provides for test procedures for the measurement of evaporative emissions of hydrocarbons from vehicles and engines manufactured during or after model year 1978. Requires the establishment of emission standards under the Clean Air Act for pollutants from railroad locomotives, locomotive engines, and secondary power sources on railroad rolling stock. Requires that any such standards shall take effect after such period as the Administrator finds necessary, upon consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, to permit the development and application of the requisite technology which is found to be feasible for controlling such emissions. Stipulates that regulations under the Clean Air Act governing vapor recovery for mobile source fuels at the retail outlets of such fuels shall provide that the cost of vapor recovery equipment procurement and installation shall be borne by the distributor and that no part of such shall be transferred to any retail outlet. Title III: Miscellaneous Amendments - Provides for the redesignation of the air quality control regions within the States under the Clean Air Act. Requires the Administrator to conduct continuing evaluations of potential loss or shifts of employment which may result from the issuance of requiremtnts under this Act. Authorizes the employees discharged, laid-off, or threatened with layoffs, due to such requirements to request of the Administrator a full investigation of the matter. Authorizes the Administrator to conduct public hearings following such requests wherein he may require parties, including the employers involved, to report on the effect of such requirements. Prohibits employers from discharging any employee who makes such a request or who commences any proceeding under this title.
United States · United States Congress · 31 October 1975
Provides that the rates of pay for Members of Congress and the Vice President shall be the rates in effect on September 30, 1975, until such time as they are fixed otherwise by law. Removes from the responsibilities of the Commission on Executive Legislative and Judicial Salaries a review of the rates of pay of Senators, Members of the House of Representatives and the Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico.
United States · United States Congress · 30 October 1975
Young Farmers' Homestead Act - Establishes as an agency within the Department of Agriculture the Federal Farm Assistance Corporation. Authorizies the Corporation to purchase farm land in value of up to $200,000 per unit. Provides that the Corporation shall make such farms available for lease and subsequently for sale. Directs that the farms may be leased to an eligible applicant for a period of not less than two years nor more than seven years with specified restrictions upon the use of such land. Provides that the lessee may at any time within six months prior to the expiration of his lease make application to the board for purchase of such unit upon the expiration of such lease. States that the board shall approve such application if it determines that the lessee can successfully manage and operate such farm unit. Specifies a formula to be used in determining the selling price of each farm. Provides that a buyer may obtain financing through any available source, but if private financing is not available, the Farmers Home Administration shall furnish the financing at a specified rate. Requires the Corporation to file annually with the Secretary of Agriculture a complete report as to the business of the Corporation. Provides that the financial transactions of the Corporation shall be audited at least once each year by the General Accounting Office. Directs the Secretary of Agriculture to appoint an advisory council to advise the board regarding the administration of this Act. Provides that the Council's advice shall include recommendations on what the eligibility requirements should be for leasing farm units and what experience should be required for leasing a farm. Authorizes the appropriation of such sums as may be necessary to carry out this Act. Specifies criminal provisions applicable to the Federal Farm Assistance Corporation. (Amends 18 U.S.C. 657, 658, 1006, and 1014)
United States · United States Congress · 28 October 1975
National Climate Program Act - States that the purpose of this Act is to help the Nation respond more effectively to climate-induced problems by enabling its Government to be aware of and anticipate climate fluctuations and their domestic and international impacts, particularly in the areas of management and planning of domestic and international food supplies, and land, natural resource, and energy allocation and utilization. Directs the Secretary of Commerce to coordinate the establishment and operation of a climate program to collect, analyze and disseminate data concerning past, present and future climatic states, their fluctuations, and the influence of man's activities on the process of climatic dynamics. States that the program shall include, but not be limited to: (1) development of a climate impact warning system to provide both timely warnings and assessments of the risks of future climate impacts; (2) improvement of current monthly and seasonal temperature and precipitation predictions, particularly with respect to their impact on food production, availability of water resources, and energy consumption; and (3) development of mathematical-computer systems for the modeling, simulation, and prediction of climate and man's effects on climate. Directs the Secretary to consult and coordinate with climatic experts and with Federal departments and agencies. Requires the Secretary to establish advisory committees in the field of climatology and related fields. Specifies that the Secretary must prepare and submit an annual report for the President and the Congress on the administration of this Act, including, but not limited to: (1) a summary of the achievements of the climate program during the previous year; (2) a list of publications produced as a result of research sponsored under this Act; and (3) a summary of the outstanding problems encountered in the administration of this Act during the year. Authorizes to be appropriated to the participating Federal departments and agencies such sums to carry out the provisions of this Act as may be necessary, not to exceed $10,000,000 for the fiscal period beginning July 1, 1976, and ending September 30, 1976, not to exceed $42,000,000 for fiscal year 1977, not to exceed $48,000,000 for fiscal year 1978, and not to exceed $56,000,000 for fiscal year 1979.
![Official portrait of Rep. Symington, James W. [D-MO-2]](https://www.congress.gov/img/member/s001134_200.jpg)